During an event to celebrate the season, an unexpected moment of gratitude took center stage at the annual Scotts Valley Christmas Tree Lighting on the evening of Dec. 6.
Scotts Valley Police Officer Nick Lipari and his K-9 partner Sam were called forward—not knowing they were about to be honored as Modern Woodmen Hometown Heroes. The presentation, carefully coordinated by Scotts Valley Vice Mayor Donna Lind, was a complete surprise for both handler and dog, making the recognition all the more meaningful.
“I absolutely had no idea the award was coming prior to getting up on stage,” Lipari said afterward. “It was definitely a shock to be selected, but I’m honored to receive the award and happy to be able to contribute to great causes through the donations.”
Sam may be new to the department, but he has already proven himself a valuable asset. Joining the force over the summer, the beloved yellow lab became a certified narcotics detection K-9 in September. Since then, he and Lipari have worked side by side, strengthening the trust and teamwork essential to K-9 policing.
“It’s been quite an experience being Sam’s handler,” Lipari said. “I was surprised with just how much I had to learn about being a K-9 handler. Luckily for me, Sam is a great dog who picked up the job quickly and has an amazing temperament.”
While no single case stands out to Lipari, Sam’s work has already made a tangible difference.
“Sam’s narcotic detection has resulted in numerous drug seizures and arrests,” he noted, underscoring the quiet but consistent impact the K-9 team has had since certification.
The Modern Woodmen Hometown Hero Award was presented by Kristin Praly, owner and operator of HorseSense Education and Advocacy, recognizing individuals who go above and beyond in service to their communities.
“Honoring Sam and our K-9 ambassadors remind us that heroes come in all forms,” Praly said. “These dogs and their handlers exemplify trust, teamwork and compassion in service to our community. Thank you for your service; in gratitude, I am proud to present Sam and Nick designated ambassadors of the Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz K-9 units for this year’s 2025 Hometown Hero award.”
Lind said the Christmas Tree Lighting was the perfect place to shine a spotlight on local heroes.
“This is a night about community,” she said. “Honoring Officer Lipari and Sam reflects how deeply appreciated their service truly is.”
For Lipari, that community support is what makes programs like the K-9 unit possible.
“I just want to emphasize how the support from our community is paramount to our ability to do our jobs and have a K-9 program like this,” he said. “We have an amazing community in Scotts Valley as well as Santa Cruz County as a whole.”
As Sam accepted plenty of well-earned attention from the crowd, Lipari reflected on the personal side of the partnership.
“Having a K-9 like Sam isn’t just a tool for work,” he said. “He’s also a pet and a friend that comes home with me every day.”
In a season defined by gratitude and goodwill, the surprise recognition served as a heartfelt reminder that heroes don’t always wear capes—sometimes, they wear a badge and walk on four paws.
